Two Sweeties

by Norman S. Giddan, PhD.

Copyright ©2004
ISBN: 0-87714-855-4 eBook edition
ISBN: 0-87714-312-9 PB edition

This is a work of fiction. All characters and events portrayed in this book are fictional, and any resemblance to real people or incidents is purely coincidental.

DEDICATION

This novel was quite a learning experience for a novice.
My geriatric patients taught me strength and hope.
Susan Malone taught me technique and style.
Sharon Williams taught me computer literacy.
Doris Booth and Jeffrey Bloom taught me
that my writing had possibilities.
My family taught me love.
To all, my sincere thanks and appreciation.

THE AUTHOR

Norman S. Giddan, PhD, a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, served as a clinical professor at the Medical College of Ohio. He has written or edited seven nonfiction books on psychological development and treatment including Wild Orchards. Two Sweeties is his first published novel.

THE BOOK

Margaret and Myra, both in their 80's, survive the travails of aging as roommates in a nursing home. They bravely face the hassles and disappointments of daily life including declining health, emotional depression, tormented memories, renovations to the nursing home, and increasing crime. The crescendo, reached with a labor strike by unionized staff and employees, leads to resident deaths, staff resignations, and sexual acting out. Margaret's family is supportive, sharply contrasted with the feelings of isolation and abandonment engendered by Myra's two daughters. Ultimately, Myra expresses her love for Margaret through a bequest of $1 million, halving the amount given to her own daughters, and creating even more wrath in her family.

It is estimated that there may be more than four million people in nursing homes or assisted living centers by the year 2010.
It is hoped that Two Sweeties will stimulate readers to think about themselves, their aging parents and relatives, and what they, themselves, want from life as they go through the various cycles of development, including old age.
Two Sweeties provides a realistic view of nursing home life with both the pros and cons indicated.
Depression is a major health burden frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed in the elderly, and Two Sweeties provides increased understanding of this clinical phenomena.

Sample

Myra shut her eyes, held the lids tight until they hurt like a child's game of hide n' seek. "I'm cold. They cut off my leg. Who are you?..."

"I'm Margaret Princeton. Why don't you look at me?"

"I'm blind, you silly; but I can see plenty. I don't need sympathy either. My name is Myra Gronbeck and I'm eighty-two."

"I guess they put you here 'cause I've got eyes enough for both of us," answered Margaret. She slid the nosepiece out and put on her glasses.

"They cut off my other leg last week," explained Myra. "At least they won't do that again. Both are gone now."

Margaret felt needed. She was ecstatic. "Let me know when you're ready to go to the bathroom to pee. I'll guide your chair. I can get you there, but you'll have to do it by yourself."

They both laughed knowingly. "Will you straighten the things in my chest of drawers, too?" asked Myra.

"I'm not a maid, you know." Margaret stood her ground.

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